General Manager of Hull-based Paragon Toolmaking Kevin Batty is to retire at the end of 2024 after clocking up a quarter of a century at the business.
And – despite the huge personal contribution he has made to the company’s success – he says he is ‘100% confident’ there is the knowledge and expertise within the business to ensure all continues to run smoothly for both customers and staff.
“Obviously, it will feel strange not to be at the business when I retire as Paragon Toolmaking has been such a huge part of my life for so long, but I’ll leave feeling proud of what we have achieved over the years, and proud of the excellent team and business I’ll be leaving behind,” he said.
“I’ve always been really committed to training, and the constant development of our team, and when I look at that team now I see so many people who have progressed through the business, learning the art of precision tool-making and design.
“One of the things I am really proud of at Paragon is the culture we have established, where we have so many highly-experienced leaders in their field who are willing to help develop the next generation. That has helped us maintain our position as one of the leading UK toolmakers.”
From factory floor to boardroom
Mr Batty started his career as an Apprentice Toolmaker with Hull Gauge and Tool before joining Paragon Toolmaking as a Tool Design Engineer in 1986, going on to lead the design department before taking a period away from the company.
He returned as Technical Manager in 2015, moving into the role of General Manager in 2019.
In recent years the business has benefitted from significant new investment, which has seen industry-leading machinery added to the factory floor, whilst it has also won recognition at engineering and manufacturing awards events.
“The business is in great shape and now needs somebody younger and with a bit more drive to push it forward,” said Mr Batty, reflecting on his decision to step away.
“I’ll have mixed feelings when my final day arrives I am sure, but I think the time has come now for me to spend some more time with my family, and my grandchildren, before I miss them growing up. I’m a toolmaker and love making things, so I’ve bought a small lathe and will be keeping my hand in with some small projects at home.”
Experienced staff ‘stepping up’
Production Manager John Wells will take on the role of General Manager when Mr Batty leaves in December, and the outgoing boss has full confidence that they will continue to provide the first class service customers have come to expect.
“I know the business is in safe hands with John and the rest of the team, as they know the industry, our business, and our customers so well. They are experienced and know the day-to-day demands, but they also deserve the opportunity to work on the development of the business too,” he said.
“I know our customers will be in safe hands, and that is part of the reason why I’ve felt able to make this decision now, as had the people not been in place to step up to the plate, I wouldn’t have been able to walk away.”
Daniel Beaumont, owner of Paragon Toolmaking, thanked Mr Batty for his ‘incredible contribution’ to the business.
He said: “What Kevin doesn’t know about toolmaking probably isn’t worth knowing, and he has always made it a priority to pass on that knowledge to the rest of the team, which is something you want to see from a manager, as an owner.
“It is always great to work with people who are passionate about their job and Kevin certainly fits into this bracket.
“He has made an incredible contribution to the business which I thank him for, whilst of course wishing him a long and happy retirement when he does finally hang up his tools at the end of the year.”
